The carrot they say it helps to brown the skin and is good for the eyes, but beyond these effects, most mortals do not know the amount of benefits to the body.
Steamed, boiled, raw, cooked, liquefied or simply fresh and snacks, the carrot is part of the food group with "promising effects" in the prevention of some types of cancer, according to the WHO in its World Cancer Report 2014.Together with spinach and tomatoes, vegetables that also contain carotenoids, serve to prevent breast cancer.
Another report from the University of Newcastle (United Kingdom) says that if it is cooked whole and then chopped, it contains 25% more falcarinol, a compound that protects the vegetable from fungal attack and that in our body acts as a protector against the development of certain types of tumors.
It is one of the most produced vegetables in the world. Asia is the largest producer followed by Europe and the United States. In Spain, its consumption grew by 4% in 2013 compared to the previous year, according to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment. It is good news, because the usual consumption of this vegetable provides an important amount of vitamins (A, B, C and E), minerals and antioxidant compounds and its caloric value is very low (100 grams equals about 33 kcal), he says Carmen García Torrent, graduated in Food Science and Technology.
Health benefits of carrots
Benefits for Teeth Health
Eating it raw strengthens the teeth and gums. Eating raw vegetables such as carrots improves oral blood flow and prevents bacteria from sticking to the teeth. In addition, fluoride, present in foods such as carrots, spinach or apples, is a fundamental mineral to keep tooth enamel in good condition and prevents tooth decay.Benefits for Stomach and Constipation
It helps fight constipation and stomach ache from poisoning. Thanks to its high fiber content, it increases the amount of stool and prevents constipation. In addition, it calms gastric discomfort and excess acidity due to mineral salts such as sodium, chlorine, potassium and B vitamins. Therefore, it is a highly recommended food if you suffer from gastritis.
Benefits For Kidney Stone
Due to its high water content, it is diuretic and helps the disintegration of kidney stones.
Benefits For Brain Health
Rich in potassium and phosphorus, it is an excellent invigorating for tired minds and restorative of nerves.
Benefits for Nails & Hair Health
Strengthens nails and hair, which brings shine. Carrot stem cells are rich in beta-carotene, also called provitamin A, which in the body is transformed into retinol or Vitamin A. These compounds repair damaged cells by environmental effects, and thus strengthen and revitalize nails and hair. Vitamin A helps in the production of sebum, beneficial to the scalp.Benefits For Breast Milk
Improves the quality of breast milk. Beta-carotene and vitamin A improve the biological quality of breast milk, according to Mario García, a Doctor of Pharmacy and expert in Food Safety. The intake of beta carotene, minerals and carrot enzymes favors the healthy production of breast milk.
Benefits For Eyes Health
And besides all that, yes, the carrot is also good for the eyes. Behind that ancient recommendation lies the true essence of carrots. Beta-carotenes are powerful protectors that prevent premature aging. They will not give us the sight of a bird, but they will protect our retina and prevent the appearance of cataracts. Daily intake of carrots is especially recommended in cases of loss of visual acuity and crepuscular blindness (difficulty seeing at night or in poor light). WHO believes that vitamin A deficiency is the most important cause of childhood blindness in developing countries.
